TRAINING: 9:30am-11:30am Grappling, 12:00pm-2:00pm Striking, 6:00pm Conditioning

Thoughts on opponent, Michael Kuiper?  He seems to be a very tough, well rounded fighter.

When and why did you start training for fighting?  June of 2008

What ranks and titles have you held? NJCAA National Wrestling Champion, Four-time Collegiate Wrestling All-American

Do you have any heroes?   My Mom

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? It is a dream come true.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn?  Minnesota State Mankato. Physical Education

What was your job before you started fighting?   Security

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition?  NJCAA National Wrestling Champion, Four-time Collegiate Wrestling All-American, 2011  IBJJF Chicago Winter Open Champion at Blue Belt, 2010 US Grappling Chicago 202 pound Blue Belt Champion, 2010 US Grappling Chicago Champion Blue Belt Absolute Champion, 2010 US Grappling Chicago No-Gi  Absolute 202 pound Champion, 2010 US Grappling Chicago No-Gi  Absolute Open Weight Champion.

Ranks in any martial arts styles: Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Black Belt Damian Hirtz of Alliance Jiu-Jitsu Minnesota

Favorite grappling technique:  Takedowns

Favorite Striking technique:  Left Hook

•    Pro since 2008

•    On six fight winning streak

•    Three wins by knockout, two by submission

•    Helped prepare Minotauro Nogueira for UFC 134 bout with Brendan Schaub in Brazil

•    Holds junior college wrestling win over current UFC middleweight contender Chris Weidman